About Andrew Mycock

Andrew
Mycock is a Reader in Politics at the University of Huddersfield. He is the
co-author of Loyal to the Core: Orangeism
and Britishness in Northern Ireland (Irish Academic Press, 2011), and
co-convenor of the Political Studies Association’s Britishness Specialist
Group.

Since the advent of the peace process, the
conflicts over cultural identity in Northern Ireland have become increasingly
fraught with danger. In order to head off a crisis, political elites must adopt a more strident approach in countering discrimination. As ever,
young people will be central to this process.

The SNP wish to lower the age of franchise for Scotland's independence referendum to 16 years of age. Is it wise to ask 'wee bairns' to make the biggest decision the country has faced for a generation?

As looting breaks out in several English towns and cities, it is hoped those who have broken the law are brought to justice. But we must all acknowledge our role in these awful events rather than simply condoning all those involved as "nihilistic thugs".